How to Treat Buni?: Home Remedies and Medical Treatment

Ringworm, commonly known in the Philippines as “buni,” is a skin disease that is caused by fungi that stays in the dead tissues of the skin, nails, scalp, hair, and other body parts. Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by parasitic worms, but it is still highly contagious. People of any age can acquire this condition, especially those with a weak immune system, such as children and the elderly. Learn more about how to treat buni. 

Symptoms of Buni

Symptoms of ringworm may be uncomfortable, but home remedies and treatments are available to ease the feeling brought about by these symptoms. If not treated early, it can spread to other parts of the body and you may even infect other people.  

Home Remedies

If you have discovered that you have ringworm early on, it is better to apply remedies before it spreads to other parts of the body. Here is the list of some natural home remedies and procedures on how to treat buni and stop the growth of fungi.

What to do:

Rinse

Before applying any home remedy, rinse the skin affected by ringworm first with warm water and soap. After washing the infected part, dry the skin properly with a clean towel or cloth. Fungus tends to develop faster on the wet part of the skin.

Garlic

Garlic is anecdotally known as an effective remedy for infection and fungi, though no actual studies prove the effectiveness of it in treating an infection. To use as a treatment, simply crush the garlic and mix it with coconut oil. Applying this paste twice a day may relieve the symptoms of buni.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Studies say that apple cider vinegar (ACV) contains antifungal properties. Using a piece of cloth or cotton, apply ACV on the infected part three times a day to resolve the symptoms of the buni or ringworm.

Aloe Vera

Based on another study, aloe vera also contains antibacterial and antifungal properties. It will also help to soothe the itchy skin that has fungi.

Coconut Oil

The acids found in coconut oil are believed to be able to kill fungal cells. Based on some studies, coconut oil is an effective remedy for different skin infections, including ringworm. Apply it to the affected skin three times a day. It can also be used as a lotion to prevent the fungi from spreading.

Turmeric

A spice known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can be applied as a paste mixed with coconut oil. After applying, leave it until it dries before rinsing or wiping it off.

Proper Hygiene

If ringworm starts to develop, make sure to regularly shower. Before putting on your clothes, dry your skin properly and wear dry, clean underwear, and clothing. It is also helpful to use anti-fungal soap and shampoo especially if the ringworm develops on the scalp or groin area.

Change sheets regularly

Ringworm is highly contagious and the fungi can transfer and quickly spread on bedsheets and pillows. Change of beddings daily prevents the spread effectively. 

However, home remedies may not be effective for others, depending on the stage of the condition.

Reminder: Home remedies have not been backed up by research and should be used with caution as it may not necessarily work with everyone.

How to Treat Buni?

If the fungus that causes ringworm does not die through these home remedies within two weeks, it is better to consult with a doctor. The usually prescribed treatments are over-the-counter topical creams and lotions. However, if even topical treatments do not seem to work, doctors will prescribe another medication that will be taken orally within one to three months.

Topical Treatment

These over-the-counter treatments contain antifungal properties. These can be in the form of a spray, cream, lotion, or powder that can be used to apply on the infected skin. Generally, it is better to apply these treatments on the skin within two to four weeks. The chances of the fungi to come back are lower. Here are the most often creams prescribed by doctors:

• Clotrimazole
• Miconazole
• Terbinafine
• Ketoconazole

Oral Treatment

If topical treatments don’t work, doctors will prescribe oral medications. However, these medications will show side effects such as nausea, vomiting, indigestion, and diarrhea. Here are the most often oral medications prescribed by doctors:

• Terbinafine. This is taken once a day for four weeks. Terbinafine works best in most cases of ringworm.
• Griseofulvin. This is intended to be taken orally for eight to 10 weeks. Women who are pregnant and breastfeeding are not allowed to take griseofulvin. It can cause birth defects and affects the effectiveness of birth control pills.
• Itraconazole. It is a pill that should be taken for 7 to 15 days. It is not suitable for children and the elderly, or people with liver malfunction. 

Learn more about Skin Infections here.